Android Phones Could Be ‘Converted’ into Windows-Powered Handsets with Custom ROMs

Microsoft has revealed that it will provide its Windows 10 OS to a select group of Xiaomi Mi4 users in an initiative to expand the Windows-powered mobile OS beyond its Lumia handsets. Sources say that it effectively overrides Android, turning the Xiaomi phone into a Windows 10 device complete with Microsoft services.

“As part of the Windows Insider Program, Microsoft will partner with Xiaomi to offer Windows 10 free downloads to a select group of Xiaomi Mi4 users. Xiaomi Mi4 users will get the ability to flash their phones with the new Windows 10 OS and provide feedback to Xiaomi and Microsoft on their experience. This partnership will allow Xiaomi and Microsoft to get direct user feedback and continue to improve the experience for China. Microsoft is thrilled to see Xiaomi embracing Windows 10 and offering this great value to their customers. We’re excited to see the feedback we receive from this audience.

Xiaomi is a leading phone manufacturer in China undergoing significant global expansion. We are excited to partner with them in China and jointly gather feedback from Chinese users on their experience with Windows 10 to jointly collaborate on product and services development for the platform.

Availability will be announced in the months to come.”

The install is done by flashing the device’s ROM, effectively removing the possibility of a dual-boot, an approach similar to the Cyanogen OS project. Also, Xiaomi was Microsoft’s first option due to the fact that it has a strong community of users who provide feedback on the company’s weekly software updates.

It looks like Microsoft has big plans in offering the customization to a wider variety of devices, should the trial prove to be a success.